Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha MP Mahua Moitra, represented by party MLA Akhruzzaman, has approached the Calcutta High Court to request an exemption from the West Bengal Animal Slaughter Control Act for Eid al-Adha. Moitra expressed concerns that the recent government notice, requiring a ‘fit certificate’ for slaughtering animals, could impact not only those observing Bakri Eid but also individuals reliant on cattle rearing for their livelihood. The petition specifically seeks relief under Section 12 of the Animal Slaughter Act, 1951, due to the upcoming Eid al-Adha celebrations.
The petition challenges a notification issued on May 13 by the new West Bengal government, which stipulates the need for a ‘fit certificate’ from specific authorities before slaughtering certain animals. This requirement applies to bulls, bullocks, cows, calves, and male and female buffaloes. The notification permits slaughter only for animals aged above 14 years or those permanently incapacitated due to various conditions like injury, deformity, old age, or incurable disease. Moitra emphasized the potential financial impact on economically weaker sections dependent on cattle rearing and sales.
During the court proceedings, Moitra highlighted the adverse effects of the notification on individuals engaged in cattle-related activities and argued that the restrictions imposed could disrupt the traditional practice of qurbani associated with Eid al-Adha. The Calcutta High Court has scheduled the initial hearing on this matter for Thursday at 10:30 a.m., following the submission made by the petitioners.
